PENANG is scheduled to host the International Museum Day from May 13 to May 23 this year.
The 10-day event is expected to attract more than 1,000 participants from other countries such as Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, South Korea, Indonesia, Japan and France.
State Museum and Art Gallery director Haryany Mohamad expects the participation of major museum institutions in the exhibition.
“The launch is expected to take place at Dewan Sri Pinang, with various community programmes, including activities at well-known tourist spot in Kampung Agong, Seberang Perai.
“Exciting events leading to the International Museum Day will showcase Penang’s culture, art, sports, and other activities.
“Further details will be disclosed in a press conference closer to the event,” she told the media after attending the opening ceremony of the ‘Rising Sun Over Penang’ exhibition at the State Museum Board in Macalister Road.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, who was present to officiate the event, expressed anticipation for the international celebration.
At the same time, Wong said the exhibition, organised by the State Museum Board, is now open for the public to visit.
The exhibition features various arts and cultures related to Japanese influence in Penang.
Wong also shared that the state Museum in Farquhar Street is expected to be fully open next year.
“The soft launch will take place May 17 this year, after years of restoration. Interior design works are to commence next month,” he said.
Story and pix by Edmund Lee